As home automation continues to advance, automatic driveway gates have become a popular home feature for both security and convenience. Not only do they improve kerb appeal, but also increase the value of a property. However, choosing the right automatic gate style for your home can be overwhelming. There are multiple factors that dictate the best option for your home; ranging from security, material, size, and style. Here is a breakdown of the most common driveway gate styles and their suitability for your home.
Swing Gates
This is the most traditional gate type and the most popular style used in residential homes. The gate usually opens inwards or outwards from a hinge on one side. These gates are usually made of wood, aluminium, steel or wrought iron. The materials used can be a good indicator of a gate’s durability as it is directly related to the gate’s maintenance costs. Wooden gates require frequent painting or staining, while metal gates can withstand extreme weather conditions and don’t require a lot of maintenance. Swing gates are suitable for homes with a lot of lateral space, but not for homes with sharp angled driveways where the gate may come into contact with the nearby walls.
Sliding Gates
Sliding gates usually feature a single panel that slides sideways to open and close. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their space-saving design. They are particularly suitable for driveways with limited space, steep inclines or other obstacles that make it hard to install a swing gate. Sliding gates can be constructed using steel, wood or aluminium. However, unlike swing gates, they require regular maintenance and alignment of rollers to keep them moving smoothly.
Bi-parting Gates
These are similar to sliding gates, but they include two panels that meet in the middle to create a larger opening. These gates are ideal for driveways that aren’t particularly wide or where the slope is too steep to install a regular swing gate. They are also well suited for commercial establishments requiring a larger opening. Like sliding gates, bi-parting gates require a good level of maintenance to ensure they operate properly.
Barrier Gates
Barrier gates are commonly found in commercial applications such as car parks, industrial complexes, and gated communities. The most common form of a barrier gate is the boom gate. These gates usually have a large horizontal arm that raises up and down to control traffic flow. They can be configured to be controlled either manually or automatically. Barrier gates are constructed from materials like steel, aluminum or wood, which determine durability and maintenance costs. They are suitable for driveways leading into larger complexes or multi-level parking lots.
FAQs
– Can I install an automatic gate on any type of driveway?
Most driveways are compatible with automatic gates. However, driveways that are extremely steep or have sharp turns may not be suitable.
– Are automatic gates safe?
Yes, automatic gates are safe when installed and used correctly. They come with safety features such as safety sensors, safety loops and safety edges that ensure the gate stops or reverses if it senses something in the way.
– How much do automatic gates cost?
The cost of an automatic gate varies depending on the type, size, material and level of automation. Generally, smaller gates cost less and larger gates cost more. An entry-level system can be installed for around $5,000 while more sophisticated systems can cost upwards of $20,000.
– Can I install an automatic gate myself?
It’s not recommended. Installing an automatic gate requires extensive electrical and structural work. Professional installation ensures that the gate is installed safely and meets relevant safety and electrical regulations.
In conclusion, automatic driveway gates come in various styles, materials and sizes, and it’s important to choose a design that complements your home’s architecture and fits your driveway space. With the variety of automatic gate options, you’ll be sure to find one that’ll enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal while providing an added layer of security. By considering the various design options and the FAQs discussed above, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which automatic gate style will work best for your home.
